Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Top choice in Walt Disney World


Set apart from the rest of Disney both in miles and in tone, Animal Kingdom attempts to blend theme park and zoo, carnival and African safari, all stirred together with a healthy dose of Disney characters, storytelling and magic. It's the greenest, and most calm, of the Disney experiences. Don't miss Finding Nemo – The Musical, Kilimanjaro Safaris and Expedition Everest. Pandora – The World of Avatar and (within it) the Na'vi River Journey are great new additions.

It's central icon is the stunningly 'carved' boabab tree, The Tree of Life. Reserve ahead for the nighttime performance, Rivers of Light, based around animal folklore, with lights and effects, of course.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Walt Disney World attractions

1. Oasis

0.06 MILES

Oasis is the first themed section of Animal Kingdom. It has cool critters, including a giant anteater, but it's best to move along to other attractions…

2. Dinoland

0.13 MILES

This bizarre dinosaur-themed section seems more like a tired carnival than Disney Magic, with garish plastic dinosaurs, midway games and 'Trilo-Bite'…

3. Discovery Island

0.17 MILES

The only attraction here is the Bugs' Life–themed It's Tough to Be a Bug!, a 4D movie that includes periods of darkness, dry ice and flashing lights…

4. Asia

0.33 MILES

Home to two of Animal Kingdom's three most popular rides: Expedition Everest, a great roller coaster with a yeti twist, and Kali River Rapids, a water…

5. Africa

0.33 MILES

Board a jeep and ride through the African Savannah on Kilimanjaro Safaris, pausing to look at zebras, lions, giraffes and more, all seemingly roaming free…

6. Rafiki's Planet Watch

0.69 MILES

Veterinarians care for sick and injured animals at the Conservation Station. You can check out pet sheep and goats at Affection Section. On the Habitat…

7. Blizzard Beach

1.03 MILES

The newer of Disney's two water parks, themed as a melted Swiss ski resort complete with a ski lift, Blizzard Beach is the 1980s Vegas Strip hotel to…

8. Hollywood Boulevard & Echo Lake

1.84 MILES

This is where you'll find the Star Wars–themed Star Tours (FastPass+), one of Disney's best 3D-simulated experiences, the over-the-top stunt show Indiana…